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BU 4U retention funding returns for 2018-19

During a symposium to highlight the previous year’s efforts, Jamie Mandigo, Brock’s Vice-Provost, Enrolment Management and International, announced the availability of $250,000 to continue BU 4U Retention Grant initiatives in 2018-19.

During a celebration of last year’s retention grant efforts, it was announced the program’s success has led to another year of funding.

Jamie Mandigo, Brock’s Vice-Provost, Enrolment Management and International, revealed at the Sept. 19 event that another $250,000 will be used to fund BU 4U Retention and Graduation Grants in 2018-19.

Having impacted nearly 16,000 students in 2017-18, the grants aim to increase the overall retention and graduation rates of the University by supporting accessibility, mobility, student-centred learning and pedagogy.

The $250,000 available will fund new and returning initiatives for the present academic year.

Mandigo said the new funding was a direct result of the wide-ranging efforts of those who participated in the inaugural year, which included academic retention initiatives to promote experiential learning and learning skills tutorials for first-year students; graduation support for non-traditional and transfer students; and increased retention through intramural sport participation.

“We saw tremendous uptake across the University and we had projects running at the institutional, Faculty and departmental levels,” he said. “The initiatives that arose from the funding impacted a cross section of the entire campus. Everyone was highly engaged and the large number of students impacted highlights that.”

Though the initiatives are diverse, Mandigo said they all contribute to an increased level of retention and graduation rates amongst Brock students. The initiatives also prepare students to positively influence others.

“We talk a lot about the student experience. The most important part of that experience is seeing them reach their academic dream and cross the stage,” he said. “They work hard to get into university, and we want to commit to provide the supports that will help them thrive and be successful, not only in their individual accomplishments but also as they impact communities locally and around the world.”

Mandigo said the positive perception of last year’s projects by students and the units that initiated them has led to many of the initiatives looking to expand their efforts this year.

“New initiatives are welcome and existing projects can put in a proposal to continue their funding as well,” he said. “We hope that many of the new applicants will partner with existing projects to share best practices.”

Those interested in applying for the grants are invited to submit their completed applications to the Vice-Provost, Enrolment Management and International at vpemi@brocku.ca by Oct. 31.

Applications will be reviewed by the Enrolment Management Committee, and applicants will be notified by Nov. 16 regarding the committee’s decision.